WH Farms Co., a Black woman-owned agricultural business, has announced its evolution into a science-focused hemp biotechnology company during a period that bridges Black History Month and Women's History Month. Led by entrepreneur Q. Nicole Vanderhorst, this transformation represents both business growth and increased representation in fields where Black ownership and women's leadership remain significantly underrepresented.
The company's expansion includes acquiring a 13,000-square-foot facility in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, bringing formulation and manufacturing capabilities in-house through a $2.9 million investment. This development will create 41 new jobs with average wages exceeding $79,000, contributing to workforce development and economic empowerment in the region.
"Our botanical ingredients are grown on land that was cleared by the hands of freed slaves, which means our heritage is built on strength and survival," said Vanderhorst, Founder and CEO of WH Farms Co. "Today, WH Farms Co. is transforming that legacy into a hemp biotech company serving the world."
This strategic shift comes as global demand for plant-based wellness solutions and sustainable agricultural innovation continues to grow. WH Farms Co., which began as a premium hemp cultivation business with USDA-licensed manufacturing, is now positioning itself at the intersection of agriculture, science, and economic empowerment. The company will focus on advanced botanical extraction, research-driven product development, and scalable innovation within the expanding hemp sector.
The evolution addresses significant industry gaps. Black ownership in agriculture has declined substantially over generations, and Black women remain particularly underrepresented in biotechnology and large-scale agricultural manufacturing. Through this transformation, WH Farms Co. aims to strengthen domestic hemp cultivation, advance science-backed botanical solutions, expand manufacturing capabilities, create sustainable job opportunities, and build long-term generational wealth.
For more information about the company's products and mission, visit https://www.whfarms.co. The company emphasizes that while it shares client testimonials about its offerings, these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.
This transition demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to hemp that prioritizes compliance, scientific rigor, and global scalability while maintaining strong ties to community and cultural heritage. As the company moves from land cultivation to laboratory innovation, it represents both a business model evolution and a meaningful step toward greater diversity in agricultural technology leadership.
